FAQ

Can you tell me a bit about the Forest?
It is 40+ secluded acres of native forest in the southeast part of Osage County, Oklahoma, with individual cabins, trails and buildings for communal activities. The forest has been here forever. We have been here for over 30 years, enjoying this beautiful space. It is a joy to share it with you.

What is offered as contemplative sitting and prayer time?Tuesday-Saturday: 7:00-7:45am contemplative prayer and sitting meditation; noon-12:30pm contemplative prayer and sitting meditation; 4:45-5:30pm contemplative prayer and sitting meditation. Sunday: 9:45 sitting meditation; 10:30 Communion service. Monday is “Forest Day” and we are in silence for the day. (No set schedule until Tuesday at 7am.) This information is also available on our Schedule page.

Are activities mandatory?
No. You are welcome to participate as little or as much as you like.

How much does it cost?
The rate for a cabin including meals is $70 per day/night for single occupancy and $55 per person per day/night for double. We accept cash, check and payments through PayPal. These rates reflect our costs to operate the Forest. Donations above these rates allow us to maintain this peaceful facility. Those who are able to give generously allow others in need to come.

Money is tight for me right now; can I still come?Due to the generosity of our friends, some scholarships are available based on financial need. Please contact the Forest office for a scholarship application by calling (918) 245-2734 or email osageforest@gmail.com.

Would my donation be tax-deductible?We are officially designated by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) [non-profit] corporation. Amounts over the listed room and board rates are tax deductible. Donations (one or several added together) over $250 will be recognized by a standard letter for tax filing.

Are there any rules?
Yes, three rules: no smoking or intoxicants on the grounds, no pets in guest cabins, and no overnight guests under 18.

What type of diet is served?We serve home cooked, wholesome, hearty vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. We try to accommodate special needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) if informed in advance.

What if I have food allergies/restrictions?
We will do our best to accommodate most dietary requirements; however, if you have serious food allergies or restrictions, we will need a detailed explanation attached to your registration form. You may also want to consider providing your own food, either prepared or with ingredients and instructions for preparation.

Is walking the trails permitted if I’m not staying there as a guest?
Yes. However, as the Forest of Peace is private property, we like to know when people are visiting, and would ask that you check-in and check-out either with a community member or by leaving a note in the main house kitchen area. Please note that smoking, fires, and burning of incense are not permitted on the Forest trails.

How accessible are the trails?
The trails can be steep in some areas and rocky. As always when hiking, we suggest you wear sensible shoes (some areas are steep), and bright colors for visibility, particularly in hunting seasons. We also suggest you use a walking stick on the trails. We have a few available, but bring your own if you have a favorite. The woods are also home to various wildlife; snakes, ticks, deer. One should plan accordingly with bug repellant and closed toe shoes. Please call if you have further questions about the trails.

How do I make arrangements to stay?
Call or email us at Osage to book a cabin. We look forward to helping you plan a retreat that fits your needs.

Driving directions: headed west from Sand Springs, Oklahoma on Hwy 412/64 W — Exit to the right at 177th W Avenue. Turn right onto 177th. Drive about one mile to the first stop sign and turn left onto Anderson Road. Go about 3/4 of a mile, and turn right onto North Ridge Avenue (Shell Creek West subdivision entrance). Drive about 1/2 mile to first right; Lakeview Road, and turn right. Drive about 1/2 mile to the end of the road. Turn right onto gravel Monastery Road and follow to our parking lot.